PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE / Pantnagar
The Kharif crop season at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology (GBPUAT), Pantnagar, formally commenced on Wednesday with a paddy transplanting programme organised at the N Block of the University Farm’s Beni Sector.
Vice-Chancellor Dr Shivendra Kumar Kashyap inaugurated the season as the chief guest. The programme began with traditional rituals performed by women agricultural workers Neelam Devi and Manju Devi. The Vice-Chancellor also participated in paddy transplantation along with university officers and employees.
Chief General Manager of the University Farm, Dr Rajesh Pratap Singh, informed that paddy seed production is being undertaken on about 210 hectares this year. He said that, under the guidance of the Vice-Chancellor, special emphasis is being laid on the seed production of pulse and oilseed crops. Programmes for producing seeds of crop varieties recommended for hilly regions have also been initiated.
To promote organic farming, 25 acres in the T Block of the Beni Sector have been earmarked for organic seed production. Dhaincha seed production will also be undertaken in the designated area, Singh added.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Kashyap extended his best wishes for the new crop season and expressed confidence of a productive harvest. He said the university is implementing various research and seed production programmes in line with the agricultural needs and priorities of Uttarakhand. He expressed hope that Pantnagar University would continue to play a vital role in meeting the State’s requirement for quality seeds.
